Going back to work...

Erinbsise

Hey everyone! FTM mom here! My son was a preemie, born 2 months early! I am very lucky to work for a company who gives 16 weeks for maternity leave. I go back February 3rd. He will be staying with my sister Monday-Thursday and with my mom on Fridays. I just have this huge feeling of guilt leaving him. Of course I feel like I should be with him 24/7 taking care of him. I have a fear he will forget me, or want my sister more than me! But we have absolutely no choice but for me to go back to work. Has anyone else gone through this? I need words of encouragement!

ASmallWonder

The biggest reality check way to look at it is this:  Do you worry he won't know/will forget/won't love his daddy? I'm sure not.  They know who their parents are and other people helping care for him are just more people to love on him

RedDDD

My son was born 6 weeks early and stayed with my SIL for about two months after I went back to work.  She baby sits him periodically and they have the most amazing connection.  Sometimes he will cry about something and actually reach out for her.  At first I felt sad about that but then when I watch them together I am glad he has such a special connection with her now that he is a little older.  Actually.....its gives me a nice break sometimes!  You should be thankful you have family he can go to.  I would much rather that then a random DC.  But like other PP said....they know who their parents are and they don't forget that.  GL!

magdalina.h

A lot of women work outside of the home and most feel this way. Lucas comes running to me when I get home. Alexis smiles when she sees me. Totally makes going to work worth it.

kelli&dave

It's so hard at first. You will be thinking about him all day. But coming home to your little one's smile is THE best feeling. Mine is all about the cuddles when mama gets home. Reconnecting with him after a day away will be a fantastic feeling for both of you.

hmlynch84

I go back to work in 2 weeks so I am right there with you. My LO will be staying with his grandparents (my in-laws). While I am sad to leave him and I will miss him terribly during the day, I am so very thankful that he gets to grow up with the love and care of his grandparents. I didn't grow up seeing my grandparents or any extended family often and my family was a bit estranged for awhile. My husband's family, on the other hand, is extremely close, and he grew up with his grandparents watching him and the closeness of their relationship today is something I wish I had with my grandparents. So, I try to look at it from that angle.